First solo exhibition of work by photographer Jan Rattia opens at Bridgette Mayer Gallery

Jan Rattia, Leland 3, 2012. C-Print, 45 x 60 inches.

NEW YORK, NY.-Bridgette Mayer Gallery announced its first solo exhibition of work by photographer Jan Rattia. Tease is on view in the Vault Room from May 1 to June 1, 2013.

The world of male exotic dancers is a generally little known subculture. Backstage, preparing for their performances, the dancers primp, pump and shave to look their best and meet the expectations of their lucrative patrons. Once on stage, the teasing and interest in patrons are all part of a performance mostly for financial gain, on occasion developing into a bond with their admirers. Rattia delves into the glamorous nighttime fantasy of a possible sexual fulfillment that is rarely satisfied.

Rattia interviewed, befriended, and photographed many dancers across the country  Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Miami, New York, Phoenix-- to expose the individual men behind these fantasies. The artist states I wanted to give a voice to a subculture that is heavily pre-judged. While exploring these issues, Rattia found that each of the dancers has a story which in many cases is quite mundane. He was surprised to find that many are heterosexual and carry on unrelated careers, although their patrons rarely know their truths. Adopted stage names and personae help maintain anonymity as well as the charged fantasy. His collection of photographs on view in the Vault Room explores issues of masculinity, outward expression and defining emotions through the portraiture of male dancers.

Jan Rattia recently completed his studies at the International Center for Photography, New York, NY. His work has been exhibited at Art Miami, Miami FL; InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel, New York, NY and the Rita K. Hillman Gallery, International Center for Photography, New York, NY among others. His work hangs in many private collections throughout the United States. A full color catalogue will be published in conjunction with this exhibition.